Three Organists Return to Phoenix for Pipe Organ Benefit at Faith Lutheran on March 7

Faith Lutheran Church in Phoenix will host a free benefit concert on Saturday, March 7 at 3:30 p.m. featuring three former organists returning to support the restoration of the congregation’s historic 57-rank pipe organ. Donations will fund critical repairs to the instrument’s windchests, preserving a vital voice for Lutheran worship and congregational song. A reception will follow. Learn more at faithalive.com/programs/music-ministry.

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In Memoriam: Rev. Neal Snider

Rev. Neal Snider died on August 3, 2025, at age 90. A pastor, theologian, and military chaplain who served in all three branches of the armed forces, Rev. Snider faithfully served congregations across the country and led Holy Land tours for decades. We give thanks for his life of steadfast faith and commend him to God’s eternal care. Please keep his wife Judy and the entire Snider family in your prayers.

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Rooted in God’s Story from Tucson to Las Vegas: Join the Remaining 2026 Spring Gatherings

The Grand Canyon Synod’s Spring Gatherings have begun, and several opportunities remain across the synod. Join us March 8 in Chandler, March 14 in Flagstaff, March 28 in Tucson, or April 11 in Las Vegas. All rostered ministers, lay leaders, and members are welcome at any location. Come reconnect, reflect on our shared calling, and remain Rooted in God’s Story together.

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Strengthening Faithful Witness: Upcoming AFN Events Across Arizona

The latest Arizona Faith Network newsletter includes upcoming opportunities for digital security training, interfaith dialogue, public witness at the Capitol, and community events across Arizona. Highlights include a March 2 Digital Security Workshop, March 4–6 Training of Trainers in Phoenix, Interfaith Day at the Capitol on March 25, and multiple hybrid and in-person gatherings.

Read the full newsletter for registration links and details: arizonafaithnetwork.org/newsletter.

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For What Shall We Pray?
  • For an end to war, conflict, and uncertainty, especially in Gaza, South Sudan, Ukraine, Iran, and Venezuela…

  • For escalating tensions in Iran and Lebanon and the safety of civilians and military personnel…

  • For partisan cooperation across divisions and elected leaders to seek the welfare and dignity of all…

  • For protection, compassion, and dignity for immigrants, refugees, and asylum seekers…

  • For those living with uncertainty and grieving loss of life in Jalisco, Mexico, and neighboring states in the wake of recent gang-related violence…

  • For those without adequate shelter during recent snowstorms in the northeast US…

  • For the recent shootings in Macon, Georgia; Jacksonville, Florida; Virginia Beach, Virginia; New Orleans, Louisiana; and Kansas City, Missouri; and for an end to gun violence…

  • For those experiencing heavy rains and flooding in southern Peru…

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Faith Lens: Born from Above, Already Loved

In this week’s Faith Lens, we revisit John 3:1–17 and Jesus’ late-night conversation with Nicodemus. What does it mean to be “born from above”? Not a moral restart or spiritual achievement—but an identity rooted in God’s Spirit and grounded in grace. Before we believe, before we prove anything, God already loves the whole world—and sends Christ not to condemn, but to save.

This reflection invites us to release the pressure to prove ourselves and instead live from an identity already claimed in love. With reflection questions, a breath prayer practice, and a closing prayer, this resource offers a timely word of freedom and courage for our congregations and ministries.

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Who Is My Neighbor? Bearing Faithful Witness in Divided Times

In the February 2026 “Deeper Understandings” series, theologian Wanda Deifelt reflects on what it means to bear faithful witness in a time of social fracture, immigration enforcement actions, and public fear. Rooted in Luke 10 and Martin Luther’s teaching on Christian freedom, she reminds us that the neighbor is anyone in need—and that we are freed by the gospel not for self-protection, but for service.

Highlighting the Minnesota bishops’ statement and examples of solidarity from congregations like Our Saviour Lutheran Church in Minneapolis, the article calls Lutherans to build “webs of solidarity” and show up for vulnerable neighbors with dignity, courage, and hope. Read the full article from Living Lutheran.

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Wayfinding in the Commons: A Monthly Space for Courageous Community

On Wednesday, March 4, ELCA Coaching invites faith leaders to join “Wayfinding in the Commons,” a monthly 45-minute online gathering (11am PT | 12pm MT | 1pm CT | 2pm ET) focused on community, leadership clarity, and one actionable next step. Rooted in the idea that “hope is a group project,” these sessions offer Scripture grounding, bite-size learning, small-group coaching, and reflection for leaders navigating real ministry challenges.

If you’re feeling stuck, isolated, or simply seeking connection, this space is for you. Join leaders from across the church as we rediscover how shared wisdom and faithful presence create agency in uncertain times. Learn more and join the March 4 gathering.

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Light on the Hill: Why Advocacy Is a Gospel Calling

In “Light on the Hill,” Jeffrey M. Jordan II of the ELCA Witness in Society office reflects on advocating for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) on Capitol Hill alongside members of the National TPS Alliance. Rooted in Matthew 5:14–15, the devotional reminds us that advocacy is not merely political strategy—it is Christian witness. When human stories are reduced to policy categories, followers of Christ are called to place the light of dignity, justice, and mercy where it can be seen.

As congregations across the Grand Canyon Synod continue to engage issues of immigration and public policy, this reflection offers theological grounding for faithful presence in the public square. We invite you to read and reflect on how God is calling you to place your light on the lampstand. Read the full devotional from ELCA Advocacy.

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February Mission Support Memo: The World Goes On

Our February 2026 Mission Support memo persuades us to realize how closing a congregation can develop a new ministry, just as Memorial Lutheran let go to become Riverside Commons in Nashville, TN. Explore how Riverside Commons will be a “neighborhood space for the sake of the world,” aiming to serve as a spiritual, artistic and social hub for East Nashville. Also learn how to join an important ELCA Town Hall: "Introducing The Church Property Resource Hub" with three days and times in March. Remember here is a pdf version of the memo too!

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The Timbre of Black Joy: A Sacred Breath That Heals and Sustains

As we observe Black History Month, we invite you to read “The Timbre of Black Joy” by the Rev. Ralen M. Robinson, pastor of Reformation Lutheran Church in Wichita, Kan. In this powerful Voices of Faith reflection, Robinson names Black joy as sacred, transformative, and healing—“a balm of Gilead” that refuses to let pain have the final word.

In a world marked by struggle and injustice, Black joy is not denial but defiance—an embodied, communal witness to hope, resilience, and God’s sustaining love. We encourage you to read and reflect on this timely essay and consider how joy strengthens, protects, and renews our shared life in Christ.

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Three Organists Return to Faith Lutheran in Phoenix for Historic Organ Benefit on March 7

Faith Lutheran Church in Phoenix will host a Three Organists Benefit Concert on Saturday, March 7, 2026 at 3:30 p.m. featuring former organists Gary Rutherford, Jim Sage, and Craig Westendorf. Admission is free, with donations supporting the restoration of Faith’s historic pipe organ. The afternoon includes solos, duets, trios, guest musicians, and a reception. Learn more at faithalive.com/programs/music-ministry.

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Tuesdays at 9 AM PT | 10 AM AZ: Join Lectio Divina with Thriving Leadership Formation

Thriving Leadership Formation (ELCA Region 2) invites synod leaders to join a weekly online Lectio Divina practice every Tuesday from 9–10 am Pacific / 10–11 am Arizona MST. Participants reflect on the upcoming Sunday lectionary text in a simple, spacious community setting. Registration is required to receive the Zoom link.

This hour can nurture your personal faith and support sermon preparation. Come as you are and join as your schedule allows.

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Rest. Renewal. Inspiration. Experience CWTA at St. Olaf College

The 2026 Conference on Worship, Theology, and the Arts (CWTA) will be held July 20–22, 2026, at St. Olaf College in Northfield, MN. Designed for ministry practitioners and by ministry practitioners, this high-quality, affordable conference focuses on nourishing vocation through worship, theology, music, the arts, and spiritual renewal.

With programming centered on “Nourishing Vocation Every Time, Age, and Place,” CWTA offers practical ideas, daily worship, networking, and rest for pastors, deacons, musicians, lay leaders, and ministry partners. Learn more and register at wp.stolaf.edu/cwta/.

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Preventing Doxxing and Digital Threats: A Practical Workshop for Faith Leaders

The Safe Communities Coalition will host a Zoom workshop on March 2 at 12:00 p.m. (Arizona) featuring Praveen Sinha of Equality Labs. This interactive training will equip clergy and congregational leaders with practical tools to prevent doxxing, strengthen online security, and respond to digital threats during a time of heightened polarization. Registration is required—sign up now to receive the Zoom link.

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